while there is a review process in place to help newbies improve their body of work. “It’s important that our clubs understand
the value of a U.S. Figure Skating-trained an- nouncer,” O’Keefe explains. “T at announcer is a quiet and behind-the-scenes director that sup- ports the referee. A good announcer doesn’t just speak over the microphone; he or she is aware of the environment of the competition the entire time, helps with the timing of the event and so on. It’s more than being a voice over a micro- phone.” Nugent was one of the commanding voices
of the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympics, while Ro- bel has done a handful of World championships, multiple U.S. Championships, a Grand Prix Fi- nal and other international competitions. While there is plenty of seriousness involved
with the role, it comes with its own funnies and follies. At Skate America in 2013, O’Keefe an- nounced Meryl Davis and Charlie White as Meryl White and Charlie Davis. After hearing a chuckle come from the audience, she quickly realized her mistake. “Ladies and gentlemen, how about we try this one more time!” With the approval from the audience, she re-announced Meryl and Char- lie. T inking in the hot seat is a developed skill and becomes part of the job. “Let’s face it: We’re live!” Nugent off ers.
“Most of us at a higher level know what to do. One of the things you learn early on is that the referee is in charge of an event. If an accident happens on the ice, we know what to say. You have to use your voice and your professionalism to keep the calm. I always have a little script as to
(l-r) Ann O’Keefe, with Tami Mickle and Ellen Funk at the 2001 U.S. Championships in Cleveland.
what to say. I want to know what to say and how to say it.” T e preparedness of the announcers nears
the level of the skaters themselves: Correct pro- nunciation for the names of competitors and of- fi cials is double-checked, protocol sheets are on hand, boots (literally) strapped on and snacks — plenty of snacks — at the ready. “We have the best seat in the house,”
O’Keefe says. “I so enjoy watching a skater per- form. I don’t know if they know — I hope they know — there are many times offi cials are unable to acknowledge a skater’s performance, but I have
SECURING OUR FUTURE BY HONORING OUR PAST
There are not enough words to describe the amount of help the Memorial Fund has given me. There were many years when the Memorial Fund was the only reason I was able to afford to compete. I thank everyone immensely for the generous contributions that have helped me get to where I am today.
– Chris Knierim, 2015 U.S. pairs champion
To donate or learn more about the Memorial Fund programs, visit
1961MEMORIALFUND.COM
SKATING 15
fought back tears because I am so proud with what they’ve done on the ice. In my mind, my face will be the last face they look at before they skate. I try to smile and send a bit of confi dence before they hear the fi rst beat of their music.” O’Keefe’s philosophy, which she shares with her announcing colleagues, is this: “Whether we are announcing the name of an Olympic medal- ist or the name of a young skater taking the ice for the very fi rst competition, our job is simple — make that skater feel as if she or he is the best on the ice.”
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